Making Paper with Wildflower Seeds

Making paper is easy and fun to do, with the right tools. The measurements for this paper recipe depend on how much paper you would like to make. Try it out with a few sheets of scrap paper first, to get a feel for the technique. It can be messy, so you might want to work outside. I like to add wildflower seeds when making paper, but you could also use petals or foliage.

Step 4

Step 5

In one, quick movement, slide your mesh tray into the pulpy water and lift it up, so that you have a fine, even covering of pulp on the mesh. If it is too thick or uneven, plunge the tray back into the water.

Step 6

Scrape the excess water from the underside of the mesh tray with your hand, and place the tray on a dry tea towel, mesh-side down.

Step 7

Roll the damp tea towel into a smooth, flat wad, and use this to press carefully all over the new paper while it is still in the tray, to squeeze out excess water. Wring out the tea towel between presses.

Step 8

Turn the tray upside down and pat gently to allow the paper to release onto the other dry tea towel. Make sure that the paper is as flat as possible before leaving it to dry.

Step 9

Dry for at least 24 hours, then use it to make invites, place cards, favor boxes, and other stationery.

Responses

Very nice looking paper! Something else you might do to get a slightly more finished look is to press the paper while still slightly wet onto a mirror, pane of glass, or bathroom tile. The water will hold it there while it dries, at least one side will be smooth, and you can avoid scalloped edges if that is your preference. (Ironing the paper while still damp can do the same thing.) But what a treat for the person who gets a sheet of this as a postcard!